How To Get A Social Security Card
Can I Change My Social Security Number After Divorce
What is the procedure for changing or correcting my name on my Social Security card? If your name officially changes due to marriage, divorce, a court order, or any other reason, you must notify Social Security so that you may get a revised card. A corrected card cannot be requested through the internet.
You Can Request Your Card Online Today
Sign in or create an account to submit your request
You can replace your card online and receive it in 14 days. You can also use your account to check the status of your request and manage other benefits you receive from us.
Trouble signing in?
Start the application online and visit your local SSA office for additional guidance for completing your application.
Prefer to talk to someone?
Contact your local SSA office.
You can start your Social Security number card application online. Once you’ve submitted your request, visit your local SSA office for additional guidance for completing your application. You will need to give us some of the information you provided again.
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The Real Problem With Social Security Numbers
No matter that individual result, switching Social Security numbers is only putting a Band-Aid on a much larger problem: Social Security numbers themselves. The issue with Social Security numbers is that theyre used both as identifier and an authenticator. It effectively serves as both a user name, meaning people have to give it out with some frequency, and a password, meaning it also has to be kept safe. Social Security numbers have to simultaneously be secret and public.
Social Security numbers have to simultaneously be secret and public.
Some other form of government-sanctioned, universally administered, unique identifierone that doesnt also double as a kind of secret passwordwould likely go a long way with solving the security problems inherent in Social Security numbers.
Nevertheless, for victims who have long suffered at the hands of identity thieves, getting a new Social Security may be a good, albeit temporary, stop-gap solution.
To get a new Social Security number, applicants must apply in person at a Social Security office. Information about the process can be found here.
Editors note: This article is regularly updated for relevance.
What Is A Social Security Card
Your Social Security card is an important piece of identification. You’ll need one to get a job, collect Social Security, or receive other government benefits.
When you apply for a Social Security number , the Social Security Administration will assign you a nine-digit number. This is the same number that is printed on the Social Security card that SSA will issue you. If you change your name, you will need to get a corrected card.
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Have One Of The Acceptable Reasons For A New Social Security Number
The Social Security Administration will only dole out new numbers to people in specific circumstances including:
- Sequential numbers assigned to members of the same family are causing problems. If your name is Brenda Smith and your sister Barbara has a nearly identical SS number, causing your credit scores, legal statuses, tax records or other important identifiers to get confused a lot, you may be eligible.
Common Reasons For Changing A Social Security Number
As mentioned above, the SSA has relatively strict requirements for changing someone’s Social Security number. For example, it won’t provide one for a person who wants to avoid the consequences of bankruptcy or is evading the law. In addition, you can’t get a new number if you simply lost your Social Security card, unless there is solid evidence that your number is being used by someone else.
Among the reasons that the SSA will accept for issuing a new number:
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Changing Your Social Security Number Is It Possible
July 27, 2022by LibertyID News Team
There are a few things in life that you cant change. Death and taxes are chief among these, at least according to the old saying youve probably heard a time or two. Then there are some other facets of everyday life that seem permanent but are, in fact, changeable if you have the desire and you file the proper paperwork a name change, for example.
How about your Social Security number? This assigned-at-birth-government-identifier is used throughout ones life for many important purposes. And that SSN can also lead to issues related to fraud and identity theft. There are a few instances where it is technically possible to get a new SSN, but the process for doing so is far from easy and is not guaranteed. Identity fraud is one such reason you might be able to obtain a new SSN, so lets dissect the question and process a bit in this post for some clarification.
Why You Might Want to Change Your Social Security Number
Your Social Security number essentially serves as a way for the government and other agencies or businesses to keep tabs on certain finances, benefits, and other things directly related to the number. An SSN, in theory, distinguishes you as a unique individual and allows you to get a job, earn benefits for Medicare and Social Security down the road, and track taxes owed and paid. Just like any other personal identifying information, this number can also become an issue if someone gets ahold of an SSN that is not their own.
Look For The Warning Signs Of Identity Theft
Identity theft is the most common reason why a thief wants your SSN. If they have access to your number, theyâll be able to run all sorts of scams in your name.
So what should to do if you think your identity is stolen? Start by checking for the usual warning signs of identity theft, such as:
- Unfamiliar charges on your credit card or bank statement.
- New loans or credit cards in your name.
- A drastic change in your credit score.
- Unfamiliar medical bills or sudden loss of benefits.
- Thereâs a warrant out for your arrest.
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Six Steps To Take To Get A New Social Security Number
Most people just get their Social Security numbers, memorize them and go about their lives. Its kind of like a drivers license pictureit may not be your favorite, but it serves the purpose. But there are times when people need a new Social Security number. People fleeing domestic abuse, people who have been the victims of identity fraud, or people whose numbers are being used by others may have a legitimate reason to change their numbers. The fact is, changing your number can impact how you show up in banking systems, drivers license bureaus and other places, so the Social Security Administration requires people to apply in person: an option thats not available when offices are shut down because of COVID-19.
In Cases Of Identity Theft You’ll Need To Prove Ongoing Fraud
Though it’s possible to change your Social Security number, it may not solve your problem.
In addition to proving ongoing fraud, you’ll also need to prove you’re suffering continued harm, like repeated hits to your credit rating, and that you’ve tried every other method to resolve the problem. That includes reporting the situation to the Federal Trade Commission, contacting the IRS and filing a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
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How To Change Your Address
If you get Social Security benefits , you can update your contact information in a safe, quick, and convenient way by following these five steps:
This service is not currently available to people who receive Supplemental Security Income or do not have a U.S. mailing address. However, if you are receiving SSI, you can easily check your address we have on record and update your telephone number via the My Profile tab on your mySocial Security.
Personal Safety Is At Risk
When there is a situation of harassment, abuse or life endangerment, the SSA will issue a new Social Security number to help ensure the safety of the person in question. Documentation will be required such as, police reports and/or restraining orders or medical records of injuries. Also, you will need to provide letters from people with direct knowledge of the abuse, domestic violence and/or harassment like counselors, friends or family members.
If a name change needs to be made as well, it is recommended that this be done first. The agency provides specific information for those who are experiencing domestic violence and in need of a new Social Security number.
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How To Qualify For A New Social Security Number
In a certain limited set of circumstances, the Social Security Administration allows people to get new Social Security numbers. For anyone whose battles with identity theft have been long and difficult, getting get a new number is something that may be a solution however, doing so comes with its own distinct set of problems.
The Social Security Administration grants requests for new Social Security numbers only in cases when:
Family Members Have Sequential Numbers
Like with the case of the two women in Florida, family members often share similar names and if members of the same family also have similar Social Security numbers further confusion can ensue. As with any of the cases where the SSA will consider changing the original number assigned to an individual, documentation will need to be provided to prove that the situation is causing hardship and is necessary.
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How Long Will It Take To Receive A New Social Security Card
If the SSA has all the information it needs, you could receive your new Social Security card in as little as one week, depending on your situation. Hereâs the typical timeline you should expect when applying for a new card or SSN:
- When requesting a replacement Social Security card: 7 â 10 business days.
- When applying to change your Social Security number: Within two weeks.
- If the SSA needs to verify your legal status: Noncitizens who can legally work in the United States can get a SSN. Unfortunately, thereâs no specified timeline for situations where a government agency needs to verify your files relating to immigration documents, immigration status, U.S. citizen status, or your certificate of naturalization.
Earn Ssa Work Credits In Some Countries
You may not have enough credits from your work in the United States to qualify for retirement benefits. But, you may be able to count your work credits from another country. The SSA has agreements with 24 countries. If you earned credits in one of those countries, they can help you qualify for U.S. benefits.
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What Happens If Your Social Security Number Is Hacked
A criminal may take property and money from a genuine person by adopting their identity and SSN. If thieves use your name and social security number, the authorities will come for you, not the perpetrators. If a credit card is hacked, you may shut it, said Adam Dolby, senior manager of Alkami Technology.
What To Do If You Lose Your Social Security Card
Your Social Security number is valuable to identity thieves because its linked to your identity. Learn what to do if your Social Security card is stolen or lost and how to keep your personal information safe.
Reading time: 5 minutes
Highlights:
- Your Social Security number can be valuable information for identity thieves
- Consider placing a security freeze or fraud alert on your credit reports if your Social Security card is lost
- If you know your Social Security number has been stolen, there are some additional steps you can take
Your Social Security number is a valuable piece of information to identity thieves. Its a key element of your identity and is also linked to taxes and credit information. And except in limited circumstances, it cant be changed. Thats why its so worrisome to have your card lost or stolen.
Here are some steps to take for a lost or stolen Social Security card:
1. Consider placing a fraud alert or a security freeze on your credit reports or locking them. With an initial fraud alert, potential lenders and creditors are encouraged to take additional steps to verify your identity, such as contacting you by phone, before extending new credit. A fraud alert lasts for one year and can be renewed. Fraud alerts are free. Contact one of the three nationwide credit bureaus Equifax, Experian or TransUnion to request a fraud alert, and that bureau will notify the other two.
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Sign Up For Ssn Monitoring
Checking that your SSN isnât being misused is a lot of work. But an identity theft protection service can do most of the work for you.
For example, Aura monitors your SSN, bank accounts, credit report, and other pieces of sensitive information for signs of fraud. If we find anything suspicious, weâll alert you in near real-time and help you take steps to stop or mitigate fraud.
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Numbers Belonging To Or Used By More Than One Person
Although the SSA has a system set up to randomly assign unique numbers to each US citizen, one of the exceptions allowed is in the case that two people have or are using the same Social Security number. The latter is all too common according to a 2010 ID Analytics study. At that time some 40 million people, orone in seven of the numbers issued at the time, were used by more than one person.
Some could be due to clerical errors by companies or employees when filling out forms. However, it could be down to someone fraudulently using another persons Social Security number to commit fraud or illegally live and work in the US. To prevent identity theft the SSA recommends that you keep your Social Security Card in a safe and secure place.
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Ask Questions When They Ask For Your Social Security Number
There is no law that prevents businesses from asking for your SSN. And you may be denied service if you don’t give the number. If giving your SSN to a business doesn’t seem reasonable to you, ask if you can show another form of identification. Or ask if the business can use another number as your customer number.
Remember that some government agencies can require your SSN. These agencies include DMV, welfare offices, and tax agencies. Look for the required “disclosure” form. The form should state if giving the number is required or optional, how it will be used, and the agency’s legal authority to ask for it.1
How Criminals Steal Your Social Security Number
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America.
In 2021 alone, nearly six million Americans were the victims of fraud, according to the Federal Trade Commission .
The problem is that scammers are masters at hiding their crimes. They want to be able to use your Social Security number for as long as possible before you catch on. But first, they have to steal it.
So how do criminals steal your Social Security number? Here are the most common ways:
Once a criminal has access to your SSN, they can use it for everything from loan fraud to stealing unemployment benefits in your name.
So, how do you know if someoneâs using your SSN without your permission?
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What Evidence Do You Need To Provide When Applying For A New Ssn
When you go to change your SSN, bring along:
- A filled-out Form SS-5. This is the same form that you, your parents, or your legal guardians likely filled out to apply for your original number and Social Security card.
- A credible statement and supporting third-party documentation that explains why you need a new number:â
- In the case of abuse or harassment: Acceptable documents include medical records of injuries, court orders, divorce decrees, police reports, and other related legal documents. You may also want to attach letters from shelters, counselors, friends, or family members with direct knowledge of the situation.â
- In the case of identity theft: Provide proof of identity and evidence that your number is being used for fraudulent transactions. Youâll also need to show that you are suffering ongoing harm as a result. For example, a lowered credit rating or loan denial. Finally, you’ll need proof that you’ve exhausted all other means to solve the problem. â
- For religious or cultural objections: Get written documentation from the group explaining the issue and showing your relationship to them.
- Documentation of your U.S. citizenship, U.S. birth certificate, or legal residency, age, identity, and current SSN. The SSA has a document checklist you can follow. You’ll also need to provide supporting documentation if you have undergone a legal name change. In fact, if you are getting a new name, make sure to do that first.